Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of a bed alarm in a healthcare facility?

1. To alert staff during medication distribution

2. To warn about incoming visitors

3. To help ensure the patient's safety when getting out of bed

4. To notify staff about scheduled meal times

The correct answer is: To help ensure the patient's safety when getting out of bed

The primary purpose of a bed alarm in a healthcare facility is to help ensure the patient's safety when getting out of bed. Bed alarms are designed to alert nursing staff when a patient attempts to get out of bed, which is especially important for those who may be at risk of falls, have mobility issues, or are disoriented. This technology enhances patient safety by providing a means to monitor patients continuously, allowing staff to respond quickly if a patient tries to leave the bed unsafely. Other options mentioned do not align with the primary function of a bed alarm. For instance, alerting staff during medication distribution or notifying staff about scheduled meal times are functions of different systems designed for those specific purposes. Similarly, warning about incoming visitors does not relate to the ongoing safe monitoring of a patient's mobility. The design and implementation of bed alarms focus specifically on preventing falls and promoting safety for patients who may need assistance when moving in or out of bed.